Thinking of studying in Italy? Great choice! Whether you’re planning to take an Italian language course, learn a traditional craft, or dive into art studies, Italy offers excellent cultural and educational experiences. But what about the cost of living in Italy for students?
The cost of living can vary significantly depending on the city and lifestyle choices. International students must budget carefully to manage housing, food, transportation, and other expenses. Understanding these financial aspects will help ease the transition into living and studying in Italy.
Let’s break it down so you can plan your budget smartly and enjoy your stress-free Italian study adventure.
How much does it cost to live in Italy as a student?
The cost of living in Italy can vary depending on the city you choose. Big cities like Rome, Milan, or Florence are more expensive, while smaller towns are generally cheaper.
Here’s a rough monthly estimate for a student budget:
- Accommodation: €600 – 800 (shared flat or student room)
- Food: €400–€600 (more if you eat out often)
- Transport: €35-45 (monthly public transport pass)
- Leisure/Personal expenses: €400–€600 but of course very subjective depending on your lifestyle and hobbies
- Plan in advance: Book flights early for better deals!
Saving on accommodation
A popular option for students is sharing a flat with locals or other international students. This helps reduce costs and gives you the chance to practice Italian daily. Studiainitalia can help you book a room in a shared flat or studio, depending on your preference and budget.
Tip: Utilities like water, gas, and electricity are usually included in the rent through Studiainitalia, though internet or washing machine use might have a small extra charge.
Private rentals offer more independence, though they come at a higher cost.
In case you prefer to rent a student apartment with online platforms, you can:
- Use our promo code SII25 and get 25% off with SPOTAHOME, Europe’s leading online platform for finding medium- and long-term accommodation;
- Use our promo code STUDIAINIT25 and get 20% off the booking fee with Spacest, the perfect platform for those seeking medium-long-term accommodation.
Budget-friendly food tips
Eating well doesn’t have to be expensive in Italy.
Cooking at home is the best way to save. We recommend focusing on local markets for fresh produce, which tends to be cheaper and supports local vendors. Cooking at home reduces costs and allows for a culinary exploration of Italian cuisine.
While dining out can be costly, it remains a delightful aspect of Italian culture. A budget meal costs around €15, whereas a three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant can reach €50. Embracing local eateries can provide budget-friendly options: small trattorie and pizzerie often offer affordable meals. Enjoying lunch menus, which are typically cheaper, can help maintain a balanced diet while saving money.
Getting around: transportation costs
Italy boasts an extensive public transport system, making it easy for students to navigate cities. A monthly transportation pass allows students unlimited access to buses, trams, and trains. This option is not only economical but also environmentally friendly.
You might even get around easily on foot or by bike, depending on the city and especially if you’re in a small town. Students can rent bicycles at affordable rates or even purchase second-hand bikes. Walking is another excellent way to explore the destination while saving money on transport costs.
Entertainment and daily life
Italy is full of free or low-cost cultural events, from open-air concerts to art exhibitions. Museums often have student discounts or free entry on certain days. Also, many cities offer free walking tours, a great way to learn about your new home.
Exploring local festivals, markets, and community events can enrich the experience without incurring high costs.
Joining clubs and societies can also provide opportunities for socialising at minimal expense. Organising group outings for activities like picnics in parks or visiting free exhibition days can lead to memorable experiences while keeping spending to a minimum.
Budgeting apps
Utilising budgeting tools can simplify the tracking process. Various apps allow users to categorise expenses, set spending limits, and even provide bill reminders. Popular options include:
- Mint
- YNAB (You Need A Budget)
- Expensify
- EveryDollar
You can accurately assess your financial situation and adjust their spending habits by regularly inputting expenditures.
Choosing a course with Studiainitalia
Enrolling in a course through Studiainitalia is an innovative and simple way to study in Italy. Here’s what you should know:
- No extra costs: You won’t pay more than booking directly through the school. Enrollment fees are already included.
- Help with everything: Studiainitalia helps you find the right course, city, and school—for free.
- Easy enrollment: Fill in the online form and pay a deposit of €150 (or €300 if you also want accommodation). Your spot will be confirmed, and you’ll get all the necessary information before your trip.
- Study materials included: Unless stated otherwise, all course materials are part of the package.
- Visa support: If you need a visa, Studiainitalia will help you with the documents.
Optional: You can join the Studiainitalia STAR programme for just €29 and get discounts on future courses, access to emergency support, and the chance to win stays in Italy.
Studying in Italy can be affordable and unforgettable, especially if you plan ahead. With Studiainitalia’s help, you can focus on learning and enjoying your experience while we take care of the rest.
Check out our courses and start planning your Italian journey today!
